Typhoon jets drafted in to intercept flight to UK after 'emergency'

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Typhoon jets were drafted in to intercept a flight to the UK following an 'emergency' on Thursday afternoon (October 17). An Air India flight from Mumbai to London's Heathrow Airport declared the emergency above the south east coast of the UK at around midday The Ministry of Defence (MoD) told the Manchester Evening News that RAF Quick Reaction Alert fighter aircraft were launched to investigate the commercial plane. READ MORE Police issue arrest update after 'underground puppy trade' busted in raids Details about the emergency have not been confirmed but it is understood a suspected threat was made on board.

Air India has been approached for details. Heathrow Airport later confirmed that the flight landed safely on Thursday afternoon but declined to provide any further comment.

A Royal Air Force spokesperson said: "We can confirm that RAF Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighter aircraft from RAF Coningsby were launched this afternoon, to investigate a civilian aircraft. “Following an uneventful interception the aircraft was released to continue to its original destination under the direction of civilian air traffic control.

This incident is now being handled under the control of civilian authorities.” Air India has been contacted for a statement.